Prayer, Thanksgiving, and Peace: A Theological and Psychological Exploration of Philippians 4:6–7 in Contemporary Mental Health Contexts

Abstract

This study undertakes a theological and psychological analysis of Philippians 4:6–7, exploring its applications for addressing mental health challenges such as anxiety, stress, and depression. Situated within the historical and literary context of Paul’s letter to the Philippians, the research highlights the passage's enduring relevance across culturally diverse societies, with particular focus on Nigeria’s socio-religious environment. The study argues that prayer, thanksgiving, and divine peace provide not only spiritual counsel but also a holistic framework that aligns with contemporary psychological insights. These principles correspond with evidence-based interventions such as mindfulness, gratitude-centred therapy, and resilience-building practices, while also offering a transcendent dimension grounded in faith. In addition, the study emphasizes the role of cultural and social factors in shaping mental health outcomes, drawing on global and African research that underscores the need for contextualized interventions (Patel et al., 2018; World Health Organization [WHO], 2022). By proposing integrative strategies that combine biblical wisdom with modern clinical practices, this paper contributes to interdisciplinary dialogue between theology, psychology, and public health. Ultimately, the findings affirm that Philippians 4:6–7 retains both spiritual depth and therapeutic relevance, providing a valuable resource for individuals, religious leaders, mental health practitioners, and policymakers seeking holistic and culturally sensitive approaches to mental health care.